Here is a wealth of up-to-date information -- more than 6,500 alphabetically arranged entries, each written by an expert in the field, covering virtually every aspect of science and technology, from the structure of atoms to the functioning of the cell. Readers wilt find brief informative entries covering subject areas such as astronomy, chemistry, biology, botany, engineering, physics, and medicine, to name a few. In addition, dozens of major topics -- such as the Solar System or the Human Body -- receive expanded, one- or two-page spreads. The volume also offers 700 special-feature boxes that explain key topics, inventions, and processes, ranging from air conditioners to binary stars; a 40-page timeline detailing significant moments in the history of science and technology; plus a ten-page ready reference section. And the entire volume boasts marvelous illustrations -- over a thousand color diagrams, tables, and photographs.

This up-to-date reference is beautifully designed, highly informative, and easy to use -- an ideal reference for high school and college students as well as anyone interested in science.